(The Lord speaking is red text)
¶ And thou shalt make curtains [of] goats' [hair] to be a covering upon the tabernacle: eleven curtains shalt thou make.
"You are to make sheets of goat's hair to be used as a tent covering the tabernacle; make eleven sheets.
You are to make curtains of goat hair for the tent over the tabernacle—eleven curtains in all.
And thou shalt make curtains of goats’ hair for a tent over the tabernacle: eleven curtains shalt thou make them.
And thou shalt make{H6213} curtains{H3407} of goats{H5795}' hair to be a covering{H168} upon the tabernacle{H4908}: eleven{H6249}{H6240} curtains{H3407} shalt thou make{H6213}.
**Exodus 26:7 Summary:**
**Themes:**
1. **Divine Instruction and Detail:** The verse reflects the intricate details given by God to Moses for the construction of the Tabernacle, emphasizing the importance of following divine instructions precisely.
2. **Holiness and Separation:** The curtains made of goats' hair served as a physical barrier, separating the holy space of the Tabernacle from the outside world, symbolizing the distinction between the sacred and the profane.
3. **Protection and Covering:** The goats' hair curtains were part of a larger system of coverings for the Tabernacle, which included layers of fine linen and ram skins dyed red, as well as a final covering of badger skins, all intended to protect the sanctuary from the elements and create a space conducive to worship and divine presence.
**Historical Context:**
- **The Exodus Era (c. 1446 BCE):** This verse is set during the time of the Israelites' exodus from Egypt, as they journey through the wilderness towards the Promised Land.
- **The Tabernacle's Purpose:** The Tabernacle was a portable sanctuary designed to be the dwelling place of God among His people. It was used until the construction of the Temple in Jerusalem by King Solomon.
- **Materials and Craftsmanship:** The materials used, such as goats' hair, were common in the ancient Near East and readily available to the Israelites. The detailed instructions for the Tabernacle's construction highlight the skilled craftsmanship required, which was likely learned during their time in Egypt.
- **Cultic Practice:** The Tabernacle's construction and the worship practices associated with it were central to the religious life of the Israelites, establishing a pattern of worship and sacrifice that would continue into the Temple period.
In summary, Exodus 26:7 is part of a larger section outlining the construction of the Tabernacle, with the specific instruction to make eleven curtains of goats' hair for the covering. This reflects the themes of divine detail, holiness, and protection, and is situated within the historical context of the Israelites' journey in the wilderness, their need for a portable worship space, and their cultural and religious practices of the time.
*This commentary is produced by Microsoft/WizardLM-2-8x22B AI model
Note: H = Hebrew (OT), G = Greek (NT)